College Conversations

S3 More Than A Degree

S3 More Than A Degree

S3 Why Am I So Tired?

S3 Why Am I So Tired?

S3 Designed to Influence

S3 Designed to Influence

S3E7: Lessons from the Field/ /Jeff Sherrod, Laurie Kagay, Olivia Beaverson, Mark Olivera

In this episode of College Conversations host Jeff Sherrod sits with Laurie Kagay, VP of Marketing and Enrollment, and students Olivia Beaverson and Mark Olivera. Together, they tackle the anxieties surrounding mandatory international mission trips for students and their parents. They discuss the challenges and rewards of international trips.  The conversation highlights the initial apprehension from both students and parents, focusing on safety concerns and the unknown.  The episode differentiates between highly facilitated trips and more independent immersion experiences, emphasizing the valuable learning and personal growth fostered by the latter, despite the increased challenges and anxieties.  Practical advice is offered for addressing parental concerns, focusing on the biblical basis for missions and the supportive team environment provided.  The episode concludes with encouragement for prospective students to embrace the challenges, learn from mistakes, and participate in God's global work.

S3E6: Mentors Matter//Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, Madeline Sinnaeve, and Ethan Raykhonov

This episode of College Conversations explores the vital role of mentorship in college success. Two student guests, Ethan and Maddie, join hosts Jeff Sherrod and Gregg Garner to share their experiences with the Institute's mentorship program, highlighting the challenges and rewards of intentional mentoring relationships. Despite initial apprehension and personality differences, both students ultimately found their mentors invaluable sources of support, guidance, and friendship. The episode also explains the program's structure, including mentor selection, matching processes, and strategies for addressing mismatches. The discussion emphasizes the importance of holistic student development, the benefits of formal mentorship programs over informal relationships, and the program's commitment to supporting students in finding the right mentor fit. Finally, the speakers offer practical advice for students seeking to maximize their mentorship experiences.